Cricket

USA's Aaron Jones Exudes Confidence Ahead of T20 World Cup Super EightUSA's vice-captain Aaron Jones has expressed unwavering belief in his team's ability to challenge and defeat full member nations in the T20 World Cup Super Eight. Jones emphasized the importance of playing "proper cricket" and reaching their full potential to achieve success.The USA secured their place in the Super Eight after their Group A match against Ireland was washed out, resulting in both teams sharing a point. They had previously defeated Canada by seven wickets and pulled off a thrilling Super Over win against former champions Pakistan."We're definitely looking forward to the challenge of the Super Eight," Jones said at a post-match press conference. "We've shown over the last couple of weeks that we can compete and beat some of the full member nations."In the Super Eight, the USA will face formidable opponents such as South Africa, West Indies, and potentially England. However, Jones remains optimistic about their chances."A lot of people don't pay much attention to US cricket," he said. "They don't know how much talent we have here. That could be an advantage for us. On any given day, if we play proper cricket, we believe we can beat any team in the world."The USA's advancement to the Super Eight also guarantees their automatic qualification for the 2026 T20 World Cup."It's a big thing for us," Jones said. "We've been talking about playing in the World Cup and playing more games against full member nations. Now we're doing it, and qualifying for the Super Eights is really good.""Not only for us right now, but we'll qualify for the 2026 World Cup as well. It's a big thing for us, the fans, and the younger generation in America."

Australia's path to the T20 World Cup title has taken a challenging turn as they face an all-Asian Super Eight group. Despite winning their first three matches, Mitchell Marsh's side will encounter a formidable test against India, Afghanistan, and likely Bangladesh.The Super Eight stage will pose a significant challenge for Australia, who have historically struggled on spinning wickets. India boasts a formidable spin attack led by Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Kuldeep Yadav. Afghanistan's spin trio of Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmed, and Mohammad Nabi is equally potent, while Bangladesh's Rishad Hossain has impressed with his leg-spin.Australia's vice-captain, Matthew Wade, acknowledged the challenges ahead. "We expect nothing different, and on their day they're all going to be very very hard teams to beat," he said. "We're expecting them to hit us with a fair bit of spin over the next little bit."The Australians have prepared for the spin challenge, but the conditions in the Caribbean are likely to favor the spinners. The match between South Africa and Nepal in St Vincent, where Australia will face Afghanistan, showcased the significant help available to spinners.Despite the challenges, Wade remains optimistic about Australia's chances. "I'm at my best when it's the last opportunity," he said. "Hopefully I can pull some good stuff out in the next little bit."However, Wade also hinted that this tournament could mark his farewell for Australia. "There are going to be players go out of this team. I'm more than comfortable if I'm one of them to get the next cycle of players coming in to play for Australia."

In a thrilling encounter at the ICC T20 World Cup, South Africa narrowly defeated Nepal by one run in a nail-biting finish. Heinrich Klassen's decisive run-out on the final delivery secured the victory for the Proteas, dashing Nepal's hopes of advancing to the Super Eight stage.Nepal's spinners had dominated the South African innings, restricting them to a modest 115/7. Reeza Hendricks anchored the Proteas' batting with 43 runs, while Tristan Stubbs contributed an unbeaten 27 off 18 balls. Kushal Bhurtel and Dipendra Singh Airee shared seven wickets for Nepal.In response, Nepal's top-order batsmen looked comfortable in their chase, reaching 85/2 by the 14th over. However, South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi turned the tide with a brilliant spell, taking 4/19 to put immense pressure on the Nepali chase.Fast bowlers Anrich Nortje and Ottneil Baartman held their nerve in the final two overs, leaving Nepal needing eight runs from the last over. Gulsan Jha struck a boundary off the third ball, bringing the equation down to two runs from the last ball.In a dramatic twist, Klassen's quick reflexes and sharp throw caught Jha short of the crease, sealing a memorable win for South Africa. The victory broke Nepalese hearts and ended their hopes of advancing in the tournament.However, fans on social media raised concerns about a potential umpiring error. They argued that the last ball should have been called a wide, as it was over the batsman's head. Screenshots shared on social media supported their claims.Despite the controversy, South Africa's victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. They will now face the United States in the Super Eight stage on Wednesday, June 19.

The T20 World Cup, currently underway in the United States and the Caribbean, has captivated sports enthusiasts worldwide. Beyond the thrilling matches, behind-the-scenes moments have also garnered attention, including a viral video featuring legendary cricketers Sunil Gavaskar and Wasim Akram.In a video captured by a fan at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York, Gavaskar and Akram were spotted dancing to the music played by the stadium's DJ. Akram, a former Pakistan captain, was hosting a show for the tournament's broadcaster, Star Sports, alongside Gavaskar, India's batting legend and former skipper.As the duo stood near the boundary ropes, they took a break from their commentary duties and couldn't resist the infectious rhythm. The anchor of the show captured the moment in a selfie, while Gavaskar and Akram continued to groove to the music.The video has since gone viral on social media, delighting cricket fans who appreciate the camaraderie and lightheartedness of the two legends. It serves as a reminder that even in the midst of intense competition, there is always room for joy and celebration.The T20 World Cup, which began on June 2, will conclude with the final on June 29 in Barbados. The tournament has featured some of the world's top cricketers and has provided fans with unforgettable moments both on and off the field.

Pakistan's disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup has sparked a fiery outburst from former batsman Ahmed Shehzad, who has launched a scathing attack on the team's senior players. In a viral rant, Shehzad has called for the removal of captain Babar Azam, star pacer Shaheen Afridi, wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan, and others, accusing them of underperformance and groupism.Shehzad's tirade stems from Pakistan's failure to qualify for the semi-finals of the tournament, despite being one of the favorites. He believes that the senior players have been given ample time to prove their worth but have consistently failed to deliver."For the past 4-5 years, Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan, and Haris Rauf have been playing regularly for Pakistan," Shehzad said. "They've been given ample time to perform. Because of the groupism in the team, they've been defending each other and saying 'we are learning from our mistakes.' What are you exactly learning?"Shehzad specifically targeted Babar Azam, accusing him of indulging in favoritism and protecting his close friends within the team. He also criticized Azam's leadership abilities and fitness levels."You speak about leadership, but you don't have any," Shehzad said. "You are just a social media generated king. You got 4-5 years to improve, but you didn't win us anything. Your fitness levels are also not up to the mark. You guys are playing politics in the team. Your cricket is declining."Shehzad also took aim at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), accusing them of mishandling the situation and blaming young players for the team's failures. He urged the PCB to take strict action against the senior players and break up the alleged groupism within the team."You are only good at making friendships," Shehzad said to the PCB. "Since becoming the PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi has made two big blunders. First, by re-appointing Babar as captain. Secondly, making Wahab Riaz as chief selector. He has been very unprofessional in his decision making and management."Shehzad's outburst has sparked a heated debate in Pakistan, with many fans and experts weighing in on the issue. Some have supported Shehzad's call for change, while others have defended the senior players and criticized Shehzad for his harsh words.

India's impressive run in the T20 World Cup Group A has secured their place in the 'Super 8s.' However, their fate against Canada on Saturday remains uncertain due to inclement weather in Florida.The state has been experiencing flash floods, leading to a state of emergency in some areas. The wet conditions have already forced the cancellation of the USA vs. Ireland match, resulting in a major upset and Pakistan's elimination from the tournament.The weather forecast for the Lauderhill region remains grim, with a high probability of showers and thunderstorms. The afternoon forecast offers a slightly better chance of play, but the situation remains fluid.India's dominance in Group A is undeniable, with three consecutive wins against Ireland, USA, and Pakistan. They have secured six points, while USA follows with five points from two wins and a no-result.The no-result in the USA vs. Ireland match has rendered the remaining two games in Group A inconsequential. India is assured of topping the group, followed by USA.The last game of the group, between Pakistan and Ireland, will be played on Sunday at the same venue. However, its outcome will have no bearing on the tournament's progression.The weather conditions in Florida will play a crucial role in determining whether India can extend their unbeaten run against Canada. If the match is washed out, both teams will share the points, and India will still advance to the 'Super 8s.'

Nepal's valiant effort against South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2024 fell just short, but captain Rohit Paudel believes that increased exposure to top-tier opposition will ultimately lead to success.Chasing a modest target of 116, Nepal dominated the proceedings until the 18th over, when Tabraiz Shamsi's double strike shifted the momentum. Anrich Nortje and Ottneil Baartman then held their nerve in the final overs, denying Nepal the two runs they needed from the last ball to force a Super Over."We're incredibly proud of the team's performance, especially our bowling and batting," Paudel said. "We came close but fell just short. We performed well in crucial moments, and our fighting spirit was commendable. With more regular exposure, we'll be on the winning side in future matches."Nepal's spinners, Dipendra Singh Airee and Kushal Bhurtel, were the architects of their near-upset, claiming seven wickets for just 40 runs in their combined eight overs. Sandeep Lamichhane, returning from injury, bowled four economical overs for 18 runs.Paudel acknowledged the spinners' effectiveness on the pitch. "When we inspected the wicket yesterday, we anticipated it to be slow," he said. "As we bowled, we realized it favored the spinners, so we introduced Bhurtel and continued with our spin attack."Bhurtel's impressive 4 for 19 included the dismissals of Aiden Markram, Henrich Klaasen, Marco Jansen, and Kagiso Rabada.Despite the narrow defeat, Nepal's performance has instilled confidence in the team. With increased exposure to top-level competition, they are poised to achieve their first victory against a Full Member side in the near future.

Team India's impressive start to the T20 World Cup, with three consecutive wins, has prompted former pacer Sreesanth to suggest a change in the playing XI. Sreesanth believes that wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson should be included in the lineup, potentially replacing all-rounder Shivam Dube.Samson, who opened in a warm-up match against Bangladesh, has not yet featured in India's World Cup campaign. However, Sreesanth believes that his versatility and current form make him a valuable asset."If Shivam Dube is not bowling, then Sanju should be given an opportunity; we know he is good enough," Sreesanth said. "The form he is in, and apart from wicketkeeping, he is a superman fielder."Sreesanth also highlighted Samson's ability to contribute in the lower order, alongside Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja. "I feel Sanju comes in last along with Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja. I think we can finish on a big score if we are chasing, with Virat being the chase master king."Dube's place in the team has come under scrutiny after he struggled with the bat against Pakistan and bowled only one over across three matches. Sreesanth believes that Samson could provide a more balanced option, especially if Dube is not contributing with the ball."If they [Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli] are opening, I don't see any reason to change the XI. Axar Patel is bowling well. If you look at Shivam Dube, yes, he hasn't played well in the first two games, but we know what he can do with the bat," Sreesanth said. "But I would like to see one change, and that is Sanju Samson coming into the team."Sreesanth's suggestion has sparked debate among cricket fans and experts. While some believe that Samson's inclusion would strengthen the team, others argue that Dube's potential with the bat should not be overlooked.

Australia and Scotland face off in a crucial match at St Lucia, with Scotland needing a win to advance to the Super Eight stage of the T20 World Cup. England's victory over Oman has eliminated any concerns about run-rate manipulation, making the equation simple: Scotland must win.Despite the daunting task of facing one of the tournament favorites, Scotland remains confident. Captain Richie Berrington and Michael Leask have been instrumental in their recent success, providing stability and power in the middle order. George Munsey's explosive batting at the top of the order will also be crucial.Australia, on the other hand, has the luxury of resting players for this match. However, they still possess a formidable lineup, led by David Warner, Travis Head, and Mitchell Marsh. Nathan Ellis and Mark Watt are two players to watch, with Ellis' skiddy style and Watt's crafty left-arm spin offering contrasting threats.The pitch at St Lucia is expected to be a good batting surface, with only a slight chance of rain. A no-result would suffice for Scotland, but they are determined to secure a famous victory.Australia has a strong record in St Lucia, having won five of their nine T20Is there. However, Scotland has shown resilience and determination throughout the tournament, and they will be eager to make history by beating one of the world's best teams.